Graduation day is a celebration of all the moments in the four years that went into it, senior class President Molly Garrity said during Rockland High School’s graduation ceremonies at Rockland Memorial Stadium on Friday night.

She encouraged her classmates that when looking back in the years to come, to recall not only the good times but the “day-to-day realities” of high school life.

“In reliving these moments, I hope you miss it,” Garrity said.

Graduation “may be your last day as a Rockland High School student, but you are a Bulldog for life,” Garrity said, referring to the school’s mascot.

Class adviser Samantha Hoyo started her speech with a rap version of her biography before cutting it short. She said that sometimes you have to take the risk of making yourself look foolish. She told the students they should be themselves and listen to their hearts.

“You need to be able to laugh at yourself, or find that the world is laughing at you,” said Hoyo, a science teacher.

Class valedictorian Jonathan David Soo Hoo thanked all those who inspired the class, from teachers and administrators to his family.

“We certainly haven’t had it easy. We persevered,” he said.

He said that not everyone in the class would become rich or famous, but he told his classmates, “Don’t let anyone interfere with your dreams.’

He quoted Kanye West, saying that if you reach for the stars and fail, you land in the clouds.

School Principal Alan Cron talked about his trip to Japan when he was in his 20s.

“I encourage you to have adventures, explore the world, and learn about yourselves,” Cron said.

The principal also announced members of the class have been awarded a total of $239,000 in scholarships.